Do You Feel As Though the Joy in Your Life Has Vanished?

Do you feel like life has become dull, monotonous and boring? Are you having trouble caring about the things that were once important to you, including your career and relationships? Maybe you feel like you're just going through the motions, watching life go on around you without really being a part of it. You might find yourself experiencing dread when it’s time to get out of bed, but struggling to fall asleep no matter how exhausted you feel at night. Does meeting your basic daily responsibilities feel overwhelming? Do you wish you could feel the energy and interest you once did for your relationships, your career, and your hobbies? Or relate to those around you who seem happy, content and fulfilled by the lives they are living?

Depression can make it seem like everything is a shade of gray. You could feel like you're in a fog, living a life devoid of feeling and meaning. You may lack motivation to engage in your relationships. which makes you feel more and more distant from and misunderstood by your friends, family members and loved ones. Maybe insecurity and the belief in your inadequacy is making you feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to reach out for help. You may have tried to will yourself to feel differently without any luck. Some people use substances in an effort to escape these dark feelings only to find that continued use exacerbates the depressive symptoms. Many people dealing with depression have strong feelings of guilt and shame compounding their sadness. The nature of depression can make you feel isolated, alone and stuck.

You're Not the Only One

Depression is one of the most common mental health ailments, with over 16 million Americans (over 18 percent) experiencing depression at some point in their lives. Some people are more susceptible to having a depressive episode than others based on their genetic makeup, as well as difficult life experiences, such as trauma and abuse. Sometimes, depression is brought on after the death of a loved one or the end of a significant relationship. It could be a result of unmet expectations for yourself or pain of dealing with an illness or disability.

We live in a culture where true connection and intimacy are usurped by the seduction of virtual connection, further isolating us from each other and ourselves. Being truly present in our lives has never been more difficult. The perception that others seem to be engaging with their lives in meaningful ways can perpetuate these feelings of isolation.

Depression may be a long time struggle for you or this could be your first depressive episode. The good news is that with the help of an experienced, compassionate therapist, you can find your way to connection with yourself and others. You can engage in a colorful, meaningful life.

It’s Possible to Feel Renewed and Invigorated

It may be hard to imagine energy and joy entering your life, but it is possible. A depressive episode can be just that, an episode; it doesn't have to be the story of your life. I’ve been providing depression treatment to people for over 17 years. I know that you have everything you need inside of yourself to heal and navigate your way through this depression to a brighter existence.

In our sessions, we will explore your unique experiences of depression and how it manifests in your life. We will look at what is driving your depression and address its underlying causes; this may include a discussion about the benefits of medication or other complementary treatments. There also may be strategies you could implement that will help you reduce or minimize your symptoms like choosing foods that support your mood, as 90 percent of serotonin, a feel good neurotransmitter, lives in the gut. Also avoiding depressants like alcohol, challenging negative thinking patterns, cultivating supportive relationships, and doing things that make you feel good are other behavioral changes that will work towards your goal of feeling better. Our time together will provide you with deeper insight into the presence of depression in your life, better equipping you to resolve its underlying causes.

Depression is not personal. It is not a reflection of you. It is a mental health disorder that often requires specific depression treatment tailored to your needs and personality. I will provide you with a supportive, safe, nonjudgmental space to address your symptoms of depression and offer you professional guidance in finding your way through this. Don't underestimate the healing impact of a compassionate ally. With help, you can feel equipped to live with lightness and joy.

But do I really need depression treatment?

I’ve heard therapy is expensive.

Depression can be a life-threatening condition. Your mental and emotional well-being is a worthy investment of your financial resources, just as your physical health is. In fact, depression can also have a debilitating impact on your physical health. Treating depression is an investment in yourself that is worth every penny. You deserve to experience your full potential.

What if I don’t respond to depression treatment?

In most cases, depression is a condition that responds well to treatment. A professional assessment can determine the best course for treatment. The effects of depression on a person’s brain can make it difficult to make rational decisions that are in your best interest, which is why the input of a trained professional is crucial in guiding someone on the road to recovery. With dedication and a willingness to explore, you can find relief.

What if depression treatment makes things worse?

Untreated depression is likely to persist and possibly get worse. Therapy will provide you with a safe environment where you can face your depression to gain insight and a deeper understanding into its causes and develop tools to cope with its effects in your day-to-day life. Psychotherapy has been proven effective, and depression treatment can help you heal and move forward in your life.

You Don't Have to Be Alone With This

Seeking depression treatment can be tough, as depression makes it difficult to reach out for help for many reasons, including lack of motivation, shame about the way you are feeling and skepticism that treatment is effective. By reading this page, you have already made a huge step on the road to recovery. If you are ready to start feeling better, call me for a free 15-minute consultation or to schedule your initial appointment. You may also join my mailing list to receive my monthly newsletter.

CoNtact me

Leslie’s style of interacting is down-to earth, unpretentious, and authentic. She listens, carefully, thus is fully present in conversations. She remembers details with amazing acuity and her responses are careful, thoughtful, and validating, and this in turn makes you comfortable and wanting to open up and share.